Tent camping opportunities near Davenport, Florida range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites within various conservation areas and state forests. Many locations remain accessible year-round, though summer temperatures frequently reach the 90s with high humidity levels. Camping areas often feature oak hammocks providing shade, though seasonal flooding can affect trail access during Florida's rainy season from June through September.
What to do
River paddling: 10-15 miles from town: At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, campers can rent canoes to explore one of central Florida's more diverse waterways. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," notes one visitor. The park features class II rapids, unusual for Florida's typically flat terrain.
Hiking through varied ecosystems: 30-minute drive: Multiple trail networks allow tent campers to explore Florida's natural landscapes without extensive travel. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking," explains a camper at Hillsborough River State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk optimal: The conservation areas provide opportunities to spot native species. At Highlands Hammock State Park Campground, campers report diverse wildlife encounters. "The area is beautiful and shady, staff very friendly, lots of critters on the trails," notes one reviewer who spotted multiple species during their stay.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: 72-degree spring water: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers tent campers access to a refreshing natural spring for swimming. "Very well kept up groundskeeper. The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" remarks one visitor. The spring maintains a consistent temperature year-round, providing relief during hot summer months.
Hammock camping infrastructure: Purpose-built poles: At Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground, tent campers appreciate specialized amenities. "Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit. There was also a trash can," notes a camper. The hammock poles accommodate up to three hammocks simultaneously at designated sites.
Secluded backcountry sites: 1-2 mile hikes required: Tent campers seeking solitude can access primitive sites throughout the region. A camper at Green Swamp — East Tract explains, "We stayed at Trail Ford because on the map it showed being close to a parking area. We had a wheeled cooler and a wagon with our gear so we didn't have an ideal backpacking situation."
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito activity: Varies by location: Insects can be problematic, particularly in humid months. One Hillsborough River camper observed, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog." Permethrin-treated clothing and enclosed tents with intact screens are essential during summer months.
Train noise impacts some locations: At some sites, nearby infrastructure affects the camping experience. One camper at Upper Hillsborough Tract reported their site was "literally 50 feet from an active train track with trains sounding the horn all night long."
Periodic flooding affects access: Many tent sites in the Davenport region experience seasonal water level changes. A visitor to Foster Bridge Primitive Site Green Swamp West advised, "Always a nice camp with multiple access hike in points. Check for scheduled hunts, hunters do not like hikers even though Florida trail is open year round."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for shade: Oak canopy coverage: Many families prioritize tree coverage when tent camping near Davenport. A visitor to Highlands Hammock noted, "The campgrounds were nice but all campsites were too close to each other. The walking trails at this park were all quite small and friendly for all."
Wildlife safety precautions: Food storage required: Proper food management is essential when tent camping with children. Another Highlands Hammock camper advised, "We had a bear visit the garbage bin during the night, so you'll have to pay attention to storing your food during the night."
Bathroom accessibility considerations: When camping with young children, proximity to facilities matters. At Lithia Springs, a camper reported, "The best thing about the campsites was that the restrooms back here were way nicer and cleaner than the main park bathhouse."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Weekend congestion: RVers note that many campgrounds become crowded during peak periods. At Highlands Hammock, a visitor observed, "We camp here 1 night 2 adults and 4 kids. The place is comfortable and the boathouse are clean. They should implement more distances between the camping sites. It was really crowded."
Electric hookups availability: Limited at primitive sites: While most primitive tent sites lack electrical connections, some developed campgrounds offer options. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park noted, "There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks."
Road conditions to remote sites: Seasonal changes: Access to more remote tent camping areas varies seasonally. At Upper Hillsborough Preserve Alston Tract, a camper reported, "Small enclosed area for tent and RV camping. Shaded pavillion and a few fire rings. Downside is that locals drive thru the turnaroind at all hours of the night and the roads are in bad repair."
